The Hollywood Reporter crowns Pitbull ‘Music’s New Don’ in their April issue. It’s a reference to Mr. Worldwide’s growing business empire and his flair for mafia-inspired threads. (He looks typically suave on the cover — rocking in a grey suit and steel blue tie). In addition to praising the MC’s sartorial skills, the accompany interview also delivers some interesting tid-bits about his music.

For starters, Pit cops to borrowing Avicii‘s folk-flavored EDM sound on recent number one hit “Timber”. “It had the same ring to it,” admits Mr. 305 when asked about comparisons to the Swedish DJ’s breakthrough smash “Wake Me Up”. “I was like, this is where it’s going right now,” he continues. “We need to put this out ASAP. No one’s doing this, we can run right behind it.”

As for his collaborator on the square dance-inducing club banger? Pitbull only has kind words for Ke$ha and post-rehab recovery. “Thank God I didn’t have to grow up in the public eye at a time when I was trying to find myself,” he says somewhat cryptically. He also reveals they haven’t spoken since she was discharged but argues: “People need their space. The good thing is she came out on a high horse. Sometimes, it’s a blessing in disguise.”

It’s nice to see Pitbull gaining more respect in the industry for his business acumen and uncanny ability to hop on the next big sound/trend before his contemporaries. Share your thoughts on Mr. Worldwide in the comments below.

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